Christian Cota

Blake Lively,  Elizabeth Banks and Tina Fey are just a few of the notable actresses who have donned Christian Cota’s designs, which has put his career in the spotlight as well. This rising star founded his eponymous fashion label in 2007, and was named a CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Finalist by the Council of Fashion Designers of America and Vogue in 2010. One peek at his Fall 2011 collection and it’s easy to see why he’s raking in the accolades. His funky details, unusual mix of textures (think fox fur & lamb skin) and precise tailoring make him a talent to follow. After all, if you can’t look like Eva Mendes you might as well dress like her. Rack up inspiration with Christian’s 10 ANSWERS below.

1. How would you describe your work in three words?
Artistic. Sophisticated. Passionate.

2. Who is your creative role model?
Karl Lagerfeld.

3. If you had an extra hour each day what would you do with it?
Visit parts of the city that I don’t have time to otherwise.

4. What place in the world most inspires you and why?
Mexico because it has so much diversity in nature, history, culture and traditions.

5. If you could do a different job for a day what would it be and why?
When I was little I thought I wanted to be a lawyer. Whenever I was in a discussion, I always won the argument.

6. What is your favorite homemade gift to give?
Chocolate chip cookies!

7. What is your favorite object in your home?
My bathtub, water always relaxes me.

8. What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Always be true to yourself.

9. What websites do you use for inspiration?
National Geographic, Getty Images and Style.com.

10. When do you consider a piece of your work complete?
My work is never complete. I am constantly editing, refining, and perfecting each piece.